Gabriella:

You have more than 8 months, so you definitely have sufficient time. As for time, I can't say. CFAI says that 250 hrs is the minimum, but it depends on your initial skill set, how quickly you grasp material, and a whole load of other factors. I'd recommend you start early and see how long it takes to work through the first 2-3 sections, then reasses.

Study guides are undoubtedly helpful, and can save a LOT of time. But, I'd plan on using both them and the CFA curriculum (it's included in the cost of registration). For a given topic, read the study guide and then test yourself (shell out for the test bank if you can). If you have a good grasp, move on. If not, go back to the CFA curriculum.

I'd definitely recommend you focus on the CFA curriculum materials for ethics and FSA, since they're the most heavily weighted. As for the others, it depends on how quickly (and thoroughly) you can grasp the material.

Good luck.
Unknown Professsor | Homepage | 03.19.08 - 11:02 am | #

Hi,
I was reading your blog with interest. I have been toying with the idea of doing the CFA Level 1 exam in December. Do you think it is doable? I have no formal education in finance. How many hours a week do you think I should put in? Also, do only the Schweser notes suffice?

Please let me know your thoughts.
Also, do visit my blog at http://onesqueakywheel.blogspot.com/

Thanks!
Gabriella | Homepage | 03.19.08 - 6:30 am | #